Why have Blacks won political empowerment in some cities and remained subordinated in others? Through case studies of Chicago, Gary, Philadelphia, and Atlanta, Keiser argues that electoral competition among White factions has created opportunities for Black leaders to win political empowerment and avoid subordination. In the absence of electoral competiion, Black votes become superfluous and separatist, and messianic appeals from leaders like Louis Farakhan gain resonance.

Why have Blacks won political empowerment in some cities and remained subordinated in others? Through case studies of Chicago, Gary, Philadelphia, and Atlanta, Keiser argues that electoral competition among White factions has created opportunities for Black leaders to win political empowerment and avoid subordination. In the absence of electoral competiion, Black votes become superfluous and separatist, and messianic appeals from leaders like Louis Farakhan gain resonance.